Alpha-1-fetoprotein (AFP) is a key variable in prenatal screening for the detection of trisomy 18, 21 and neural tube defect. It is also the primary tumor marker for nonseminomatous testicular cancers. Post-operative AFP levels that remain above normal imply residual tumor, and/or tumor recurrence. AFP can be high in up to 70% of patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Elevated AFP levels have occasionally been found in association with gastrointestinal tract cancers. Serum AFP is also elevated in ataxia telangiectasia, hereditary tyrosinemia, teratocarcinoma, and non-cancerous hepatic conditions, such as acute viral hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis and cirrhosis. Elevation of serum AFP in non-cancerous hepatic diseases is usually transient.

Source: Regenstrief Institute

BASIC ATTRIBUTES

Class/Type:

CHEM/Lab

First Released in Version:

2.17

Last Updated in Version:

2.56

Order vs. Obs.:

Both

Status:

Active.Change Reason: The PrThr property is used for LOINC terms whose results are reported using an ordered categorical scale, regardless of whether or not an internal threshold was used to make that determination. This change was approved by the Laboratory LOINC Committee in June 2016.

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